S.B. No. 284 amends the Transportation Code to establish new definitions and civil penalties related to unauthorized signs placed on the right-of-way of public roads in Texas. The bill introduces a clearer definition of "person" to include various entities associated with the placement of signs, and it refines the definition of "sign" to encompass a broader range of advertising and informational displays. Additionally, the bill specifies that individuals or entities responsible for placing unauthorized signs may be liable for civil penalties, with the amount of the penalty structured based on the number of violations: $1,000 for the first violation, $2,500 for a second violation, and $5,000 for a third or subsequent violation.

The bill also removes previous language that allowed for penalties to vary based on the seriousness of the violation and the violator's history, simplifying the penalty structure. It clarifies that the new penalties will only apply to violations occurring on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Violations that occur before this date will be governed by the law in effect at that time.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 393.007 (Transportation Code 393)
Senate Committee Report: Transportation Code 393.001, Transportation Code 393.007 (Transportation Code 393)